Kelsey Olson – Page 7 – The Wonderful World Of Wauna

Protecting Your Credit During COVID-19

As the coronavirus outbreak continues to evolve, your credit might be the last thing on your mind. During emergencies, however, you should know the state of your finances and keep credit on your radar.

Normally, your credit report is available every 12 months from all three credit bureaus – TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax. Given the vast number of consumers’ financial health being impacted by the current economic conditions, online access to your report is now available on a weekly basis. Visit annualcreditreport.com and follow the prompts.

There are four main ways you can acquire your score, including checking your credit card or other loan statements, talking to a non-profit certified credit counselor, using a credit score service (be sure you know what you are signing up for and how much it really costs!), or buying a score directly from one of the three credit bureaus – TransUnion, Experian, or Equifax.

There are additional ways you can be proactive with your credit. Follow these steps to help keep your credit on solid footing.

Pay your bills on time, if you can.
Even if it gets difficult, try to make at least the minimum payment by their due date. Late payments negatively affect your credit score.
Contact your creditors and service providers.
If you get to a point where you can’t pay all your bills, contact your creditors and any service providers such as utilities, phone company, etc.
Check your credit regularly.
Now is a critical time to make sure your credit reports are accurate. If you identify potential fraud, you can respond before it damages your credit.
Be extra protective of your identity.
Unfortunately, during times of crisis, scams and identity theft are at an all-time high. Protecting your personal information is essential. You can place a free security freeze on your credit files which prevents people from accessing your personal information and using your name to apply for credit.
Get financial assistance, if needed.
Certified credit counselors can offer advice on how to repay your debts in a manageable way.
Dispute inaccurate information.
If you find inaccurate information when reviewing your credit report, you can file a dispute with each credit bureau. Each bureau has an online dispute center, which is the quickest way to file a dispute.

How to Order Your Credit Report
Don’t contact the credit reporting agencies individually. The free reports are available only through annualcreditreport.com and 1-877-322-8228.

You’ll need to provide your name, address, social security number, and date of birth. If you’ve moved in the last two years, you may need to provide your previous address. For security purposes and to verify your identity, you may be asked for information only you would know, like your monthly mortgage payment.

Beware of “Imposter” Websites
The only website authorized to fill orders for the free annual credit report you are legally entitled to is annualcreditreport.com. Other sites that claim to offer “free credit report” or “free credit monitoring” aren’t part of the legally mandated free annual credit report program and in some cases have strings attached to the “free” product being advertised.

Report Scams
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) works for you–the consumer–to prevent fraud and unfair business practices in the marketplace. If you think you’ve been the victim of a scam, you can file a complaint with the FTC (ftc.gov/complaint) and/or the Attorney General of your state.

No matter what, alongside your physical health, the state of your financial health and wellness should be a top priority. Of course, you can always visit waunafcu.org for more information or to meet directly with a member of our friendly and knowledgeable team.

What to do if you need help

The health and safety impact of the COVID-19 outbreak can not be understated, but neither can the economic impact. Last week Oregon and Washington reported record new unemployment claims, and our footprint has been affected. If you run into trouble paying bills or loans, or paying on time, there may be a number of options to help, especially if you reach out to us, as well as your other creditors. Even though our branch lobbies have temporary restricted lobbies, you can still talk to us face-to-face through our video teller units and WaunaCU Now. More information about how to reach us can be found on our COVID-19 resource page.

Reach out!

This is the most important step at all. We’re always here to help, and right now companies are doing everything they can to lessen the impact of the financial hardships many people are facing. Being behind on your payments can have a lasting impact on your credit but making your lender aware of your situation may not only provide peace of mind, it can also help you create a plan.

WCU, Credit card companies, and other lenders may be able to offer you a number of options to help you. This could include waiving certain fees like Overdraft, ATM, and late fees, as well as allowing you to delay, adjust, or skip some payments.

When contacting your lenders, be prepared to explain:

Your situation
How much you can afford to pay
When you’re likely to be able to restart regular payments
In the case of mortgages, be prepared to discuss your income, expenses and assets

Also, if you have student loans, you may qualify for a delayed or reduced payment program. Just remember, even though you don’t need to make payments now, interest will continue to accrue, and you will have to make up these amounts eventually. Contact your student loan servicer to find out more about your options.

Help is on the way

The federal government just passed its emergency stimulus package that provides a wealth of resources for almost every American. The $1,200 payment to each tax payer (or at least those who make under $75,000), and $500 credit for each dependent child are getting the headlines, but there are many more benefits to individuals and small businesses.

The Oregon Health Authority and benefitscheckup.org are amazing resources, that not only are a repository of COVID-19 stimulus items, but provide links to regular government programs as well.

March Statement Insert

A note from Wauna Credit Union. This statement insert was sent to printers in early March, before the current COVID-19 pandemic, and resulting economic impact. The images, and copy in this month’s statement reflect a very different world than we are in today. Our programs, offerings, and incentives mentioned below, are still there to help you, our member owners.

Rebates for Every Individual
1%* cash back 60 days no payments
When you move your vehicle, watercraft, off-road, or unsecured loans to us.
*Special Promotional Terms: Upon loan approval, current and new Wauna CU members who refinance a qualifying loan currently financed elsewhere to Wauna Credit Union become eligible to receive: 1. Immediate Cash Rebate equal to 1% of the approved loan value; 2. 60-Days No Payments (interest will continue to accrue during the 60-day period); and, 3. Wauna CU will pay the vehicle title transfer fee up to $100 (member is responsible to pay any additional amount) . Qualifying Loans: Auto, Truck, SUV, Van, Motor home, trailer, boat, watercraft, motorcycles, side-by-sides, quads, and unsecured loans such as home furnishings, tuition, personal loans, etc. Minimum loan amount to qualify for special terms: $2,000; Maximum rebate allowed is $500 per qualifying loan. These special, promotional financing terms end at close of business April 30, 2020. Rates & financing are offered based on applicant’s credit worthiness and term of the loan. Note : the promotional cash rebate paid to a member may be forfeit if the loan balance is paid in full within 180-days of the loan funding date. Membership with Wauna CU required to be eligible for this special offer.

WE SAY YES
HOME EQUITY LINES OF CREDIT
1.99% APR* INTRO RATE FOR 6 MONTHS THEN EQUAL TO PRIME CURRENTLY 3.25% **PLUS 0 – 8%
BORROW UP TO 100% OF YOUR HOME’S VALUE
NO LOAN ORIGINATION COSTS

APR: Variable Annual Percentage Rate. This Promotional financing applies to new HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) accounts opened between February 1 and July 31, 2020. No closing costs except appraisal if required. Estimated appraisal cost: $745. Your interest rate and credit limit will be determined based on individual credit worthiness. An early closure fee (Title, Recording, Flood Determination; Total is approximately $250) is applied if the loan is closed within the first 36 months. A $35 annual fee will be waived if the Total Finance Charges paid during the previous 12 months is equal to or exceeds $35. The APR includes interest only and no other costs, and could change at any time. Variable Rate is equal to the Prime Rate index (currently 4.25°l APRas of March 5, 2020) as published in the Wall Street Journal and is subject to change. To determine the APR which will apply to your account, an interest rate margin (currently 0% APR – 8% APR) will be added to the current Prime Rate Index. In no event will the regular APR be less than the Prime Rate Index or more than18% APR or applicable state law. The 1.99% Promotional APR is available for 6 months after the loan is funded. At the beginning of the 7th month, your regular rate will be applied. Minimum monthly payment may change as a result of interest rate changes. Home Equity loans may qualify for tax deductible interest. Consult with your tax advisor for details. This promotional Home Equity Line of Credit enables qualified borrowers to finance up to 100% of their home value. There are no Loan Origination Costs. Some restrictions apply. Membership with Wauna Credit Union is required for a HELOC to be funded. Visit waunafcu.org for member eligibility details. This special offer ends July 31, 2020.

Credit Union Youth Month
Individuals Welcome
Awesome Prizes! Magical Fun!
Open or deposit money into a youth account.
Youth members could win up to $200* or an Amazon Fire Tablet!*
Adopt-A-Teacher: Visit our website to nominate your favorite teacher. The teacher with the most votes wins $500!
*This promotion is limited to youth age 17 or younger who establish a new, personal membership Jump Start Club account during April 1-30, 2020. Wauna Credit Union will deposit the initial $5 to qualifying members’ new account. Visit waunafcu.org for membership eligibility and promotional prize details. To become eligible for the prize drawings, a minimum $5 deposit must be made to qualifying new youth member’s account before close of business Friday, April 30, 2020. Winning entries will be determined by random drawing Monday, May 11th. Odds to win a prize: Approximately 1 in 150. No purchase is required. Prize values: 1 (one) Kid’s Fire Tablet @ $59 .99 (age eligibility : 0-10) ; 1 (one) Fire Tablet @ $ 59 .99 (age eligibility: 10-17) ; and, 1 (one) $100 deposited to recipient’s account (age eligibility: 0-17). Recipients will be contacted by the Credit Union. Scavenger Hunt prize value: $20; No entry required. Limited to any current member age 17 or younger. Available at all branches except Astoria Safeway and Long Beach. Wauna Credit Union, 101 Truehaak Street SE, Clatskanie OR 97016 .

You’re taking it easy
We’re making it easy. Our agency will personally tailor affordable coverage solutions for you and your family. Service that’s totally personal, so you can sit back and take it easy.
www.cascadecrestinsurance.com (503) 728-4291

INDIVIDUAL GRADUATES WELCOME!
Apply for our Student Scholarships! Deadline is April 15th
Apply at: waunafcu.org

Stay Safe Against Financial Fraud

An unfortunate reality of the world is that even though most of us are pulling together and helping each-other in this time of need, there are a few bad actors out there who see the current pandemic as an opportunity to make money.

Scammers have always followed the news. Now more than ever is the time to safeguard your information.

Be extra vigilant when clicking on links, or going to websites, about the Cononavirus.
Wauna Credit Union will only contact you via email from an address that ends with @waunafcu.org
If you get a call, text or email from us and you aren’t sure, simply call back a number you know is the credit union
- That will usually be our 800-773-3236 number, but we currently have enabled direct branch calling as well
- All information can be found at https://waunafcu.org/covid-19.shtml
- Fraudsters can trick you into thinking the number is from our 800 number, so never give out any identifying information about your account including transaction details with anything more than a yes or no answer
We will never ask you over the phone for your PIN, CV2 codes or Expiration Dates.

March Anniversaries

With everything going on right now, it’s even more important to acknowledge our employees. Today we give thanks to our March Anniversary celebrants.

Michael Swanson – 2 Years

What is your current position?
I am a Lending Support Specialist. I work behind the scenes to do whatever is needed to support our loan officers so that they can serve you. I help manage our lending computer systems, work on projects to roll out new loan products, and I am always working to make borrowing from Wauna a simpler, smoother process.

What is something that working at WCU has taught you?
Working in this role, I have learned the value of being persistent when I have an idea or solution that I am passionate about. Similarly, I have learned to trust my colleagues when they have an idea that they feel passionately about. Passion for our members is what the job is all about, after all!

If you could choose one new hobby what would it be?
I recently took up photography as a hobby, but haven’t had much opportunity to get out and take pictures yet, since we are just coming out of the winter. So I would choose to put more time into that, for sure!

The Dangers of Large Cash Withdrawal

As our valued member we want you to know we care about your financial well-being and protecting you. Some things we would like you to consider before withdrawing large sums of cash:

Your funds are safer at Wauna Credit Union. Wauna Credit Union is an NCUA insured institution and therefore your funds on deposit are also insured under the NCUA rules and regulations.
Wauna Credit Union can do nothing to protect your money once you withdraw the cash. Should cash be lost, you are robbed, or it gets destroyed you are accepting all of the risk and it cannot be replaced.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends contactless payments. Paying with other means than handling paper currency eliminates the potential spread of COVID-19. Wauna Credit Union offers debit and credit cards, mobile payment, online bill-pay, and person to person payments through the mobile app.

We ask you to please be safe and consider other methods of conducting your business to protect yourself, loved ones, and your hard-earned cash.

February Statement Insert: Home Equity, Loan Rebates, Credit card

WE SAY YES
HOME EQUITY LINE OF CREDIT
1.99°10 APR* INTRO RATE FOR 6 MONTHS. THEN,
EQUAL TO PRIME RATE INDEX, CURRENTLY 4. 75°10
BORROW UP TO 100% OF YOUR HOME’S VALUE
NO LOAN ORIGINATION COSTS

*APR: Variable Annual Percentage Rate. This Promotional financing applies to new HELOC (Home Equity Line of credit) accounts opened between February 1 and July 31, 2020. No closing costs except appraisal if required. Estimated appraisal cost: $745. Your interest rate and credit limit will be determined based on individual credit worthiness. An early closure fee (Title, Recording, Flood Determination; Total is approximately $250) is applied if the loan is dosed within the first 36 months. A $35 annual fee will be waived if the Total Finance charges paid during the previous 12 months is equal to or exceeds $35. The APR includes interest only and no other costs, and could change at any time. Variable Rate is equal to the Prime Rate index (currently 4.75% APR as of Jan. 20, 2020) as published in the Wall Street Journal and is subject to change. To determine the APR which will apply to your account, a margin ( currently 0.00% APR – 8.50 APR) will be added to your current index rate. As of Jan. 20, 2020, the Variable Annual Percentage Rate for Home Equity Lines of Credit ranged from 4.00% to 12.00%. In no event will the regular APR be less than the Prime Rate Index or more than 18% APR or applicable state law. The 1.99% Promotional APR is available for 6 months after the loan is funded. At the beginning of the 7th month, your regular rate will be applied. Minimum monthly payment may change as a result of interest rate changes. Home equity loans may qualify for tax deductible interest. Consult with your tax advisor for details. This promotional Home Equity Line of Credit enables qualified borrowers to finance up to 100% of their home value. There are no Loan Origination Costs. Some restrictions apply. Membership with Wauna Credit Union is required for a HELOC to be funded. Visit waunafcu.org for member eligibility details. This special offer ends July 31, 2020. NMLS 421867

REBATES For Every Individual
1%* Cash Back
60 days no payments
When you move your vehicle, watercraft, off-road, or unsecured loans to us.
*Special Promotional Terms: Upon loan approval, current and new Wauna CU members who refinance a qualifying loan currently financed elsewhere to Wauna Credit Union become eligible to receive: 1. Immediate Cash Rebate equal to 1 % of the approved loan value; 2. 60-Days No Payments (interest will continue to accrue during the 60-day period); and, 3. Wauna CU will pay the vehicle title transfer fee up to $100 (member is responsible to pay any additional amount). Qualifying Loans: Auto, Truck, SUV, Van, Motor home, trailer, boat, watercraft, motorcycles, side-by-sides, quads, and unsecured loans such as home furnishings, tuition, personal loans, etc. Minimum loan amount to qualify for special terms: $2,000; Maximum rebate allowed is $500 per qualifying loan. These special, promotional financing terms end at close of business April 30, 2020. Rates & financing are offered based on applicant’s credit worthiness and term of the loan. Note: the promotional cash rebate paid to a member may be forfeit if the loan balance is paid in full within 180-days of the loan funding date. Membership with Wauna CU required to be eligible for this special offer.

Invest In Yourself
The future isn’t always predictable, but it’s better
to plan now than to have questions later. Not only do Individual retirement accounts (IRAs) offer significant tax advantages, but also, investing in an IRA at Wauna Credit Union sooner than later gives your money more time to blossom.

Looking to make a switch?
Get a quote today!
503.728.4391
www.cascadecrestinsurance.com
Cascade Crest Insurance

Transfer your balances to us and save
0% Intro APR^ for 6 Months
Rewards APR After:
11.15% 18.00%
Platinum APR After:
9.90% – 17.90%
^The special 0% Introductory Rate applies to qualifying balance transfers processed through March 31, 2020. The Introductory Rate will begin on the date the balance transaction is processed and remain in effect for 6 billing cycles, at which time the terms of the cardholder’s Credit Card Account Agreement will apply. Current rate for VISA Rewards is 2.99%-18.00% APR, and for VISA Platinum 9.90%-17.90% APR. A Balance Transfer Fee equal to 3% of the total balance or $20, whichever is greater, will be assessed at the time the balance transfer is processed. Balance transfers from other accounts issued by Wauna Credit Union do not qualify for the special terms, nor will any amount of debt which would cause the account holder’s credit card balance to exceed their credit limit. Failure to abide by the terms and conditions of the Wauna CU Credit Card Account Agreement may result in forfeit of the Introductory Rate. APR: Annual Percentage Rate. This special promotional offer ends at close of business March 31, 2020. Complete promotion details available at waunafcu.org. Membership with Wauna Credit Union is required.

Annual Meeting Reminder
Our 53rd Annual Meeting is Tuesday, March 17th at 6:30pm
Where: Erlene Darby Learning Center 49249 Hwy 30, Westport, OR
Doors open at 6pm.
Light refreshments served.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Wauna Credit Union
24/7 banking
waunafcu.org
800-773-3236
Equal Housing Opportunity

Auto Pre-Approval; The Only Way to Shop

You’ve talked to your friends, checked specs online and looked at which dealerships are giving incentives. In short you’re ready to get yourself a new vehicle. There’s one last step though. Before you go shopping, it’s important to get pre-approved for that new (or used) car or truck.

Getting pre-approved for a vehicle loan gives you a huge leg up when going into the dealership. You walk in knowing exactly what you’re qualified for, and gives you the upper hand in negotiating with the dealer. There’s no more worrying about the tricky four square sales technique the dealers use. Once they know financing is off the table, it’s just about negotiating the cost of the car.

No matter where you are in our service area – from Scappoose to Vernonia to Warrenton – All of our branches offer great low rates and can answer any question you have about the process.

Plus, if you get pre-approved at one of our branches or with through our U banking online or mobile banking, we offer much lower rates on Mechanical Breakdown Protection (MBP) & Guaranteed Auto Protection (GAP), and we also have competitive rates on Auto Insurance!

One final thing to keep in mind. Often times the dealership will get you to sign up for an indirect loan. That means you’ll still have a Wauna Credit Union auto loan, but it’s originated at the dealership. Sometimes this can impact the services you’ve already agreed upon when you got preapproved. Since you are already pre-approved, you can simply tell them no thanks, and go with your direct loan from the credit union.

February Anniversaries

Wauna Credit Union has been serving members of the towns and cities surrounding the Columbia River for 52 years. Our February anniversary celebrants bring love to the credit union. We’re continuing to grow (if you want to join us check out our careers page).

Rebekah Ausmus – 2 years

What is your current position?
I am a Real Estate Support Specialist- I’m the one that sends the money when people get a mortgage, and the one that handles the paperwork when they pay them off. It’s fun to be part of such huge moments in people’s lives, even if they never see me. I have been in my current position for two months, but have worked at Wauna for two years.

What is something that working at WCU has taught you?
While working for Wauna I have learned that being part of a team that is there to support you is key to being successful. I enjoy working with such an incredible group of people who are willingly to take on any task to help their team.

If you could choose one new hobby what would it be?
I would like to start a card club where friends can meet up once a month and play different card games. My favorite is Shanghai Rummy.

How Do I Get a Mortgage

Do you want to buy a home, or maybe fix up the one you have, but have questions about getting a mortgage? Luckily, two of the best loan officer in Clatsop County are hear to answer your question.

Paige Tischer and Heather Dixson sat down with WaunaTalk recently. Both Paige and Heather have worked with our members for years. They talk through the steps it takes to get a mortgage, and the types of loans the credit union offers. Also, Paige and Heather chat about how a credit union is different than a bank or broker.

If you’re looking to purchase or refinance learn more on our Mortgage page. Wauna Credit Union offers primary, investment, vacation, and bare land loans. We also let you use the equity in your home to get a HELOC.

Whatever mortgage you need Wauna Credit Union has the solution for you. Our friendly RELOs, Mark, Jen, Paige, and Heather are here to answer any question you have.

Tell them Veyda sent you.

Veyda the Mortgage Dog takes a break after helping our members get their home loan

If you want to listen to past episodes of WaunaTalk check out this page. Employees discuss credit, working at the credit union, an even what makes a credit union special. If you have suggestions for future editions let us know.